Frome Valley Voice May 2021

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

May, 2021 Issue 91

FREE EVERY MONTH IN WINTERBOURNE, FRAMPTON COTTERELL, COALPIT HEATH, IRON ACTON & WINTERBOURNE DOWN

Building for the future

Eileen's gift to scouts A PENSIONER who made hundreds of bead necklaces and bracelets during lockdown is helping a scout group achieve its dream of building a new HQ. PAGE 5

Grave attack arrest Families from the Frampton Cotterell area came out to help build a willow tunnel for the play area at Beesmoor Road playing fields. Full story: Page 7

Huge solar farm for Frampton A HUGE solar energy farm, which could generate energy for around 15,000 homes, could be built next to Frampton Cotterell.

A planning application has been made for agricultural land west of the village, either side of Perrinpit Road, between Bristol Road and Old Gloucester Road The panels would cover an area of more than 63

hectares, around 155 acres or about the same area as 77 football pitches, with the entire site covering 82 hectares.

They would generate 49.9 megawatts of electricity, with around 40 megawatts going to the national network – enough to power about 15,000 homes.

Turn to page 2

POLICE have arrested and charged a woman over vandal damage to the grave of a Winterbourne Down man, who died aged 22.

PAGE 4

Election guide

CANDIDATES who want to be the region's Metro Mayor and police commissioner have given Voice readers their manifesto pledges.

PAGES 8 to 11

Don't dig, grow

A GROUP has explained how it is growing plants from seed, without ever digging the soil.

PAGE 14

Speak to our friendly team today t: 01454 252 140 or visit our website www.aj-homes.co.uk

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June deadline

Our June deadline is May 19.

FromeValley Voice contacts Richard Drew

Ken McCormick

01454 800 120 contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk For advertising enquiries: sales@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Publisher

Editor

Fi Picton

Journalist

contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter.

Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Frome Valley Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

May, 2021

n NEWS

Solar energy farm plan to provide energy for 15,000 homes From page 1 If the scheme is approved, the site would be in operation for 40 years before being returned to farmland.

But opponents of the scheme fear it could have an adverse impact on local wildlife, particularly birds, and say not enough consultation has taken place.

The company behind the application, Perrinpit Road Solar Ltd, is a joint venture between BayWa r.e. UK, part of the a global renewable energy development business, and Grϋne Energien Solar, which specialises in solar energy.

A spokesperson for BayWa r.e. said: “South Gloucestershire Council has declared both a climate and an ecological emergency, aiming to become a carbon neutral Council by 2030, and has pledged to make the area a net zero carbon emissions area by 2045. We are excited to be able to make a significant contribution towards that commitment.

“Our proposals for Perrinpit Farm will power the equivalent of around 15,000 houses per year, and we will also be planting wildflower meadows and other environmental enhancements as outlined in our planning application submission.

“Not only this, but the site will continue to be used as

grazing ground for sheep. These proposals are a genuine winwin, which will help move away from fossil fuels, whilst also improving the local environment for plants, animals, and people.”

Under the plans footpaths and bridleways will remain.

Sections of hedgerow will have to be removed for construction work, but Baywa r.e. says it will plant 340m of new hedgerows.

A landscape and ecological management plan submitted with the application says habitats for protected species including dormice, badgers, birds and bats will be retained, and new nesting sites will be created for ground nesting birds such as the skylark.

It says the scheme "can provide biodiversity benefit in the medium-long term".

Another report on the site's trees said stopping ploughing the fields could "provide a longer-term ecological benefit for the site”.

But some residents are concerned that there will be a negative impact.

Julian Selman, who lives within half a mile of the site, said: “The company is making many assurances about mitigation and putting in more hedgerows, but I can’t see how it is not going to have a devastating effect on the wildlife of the area, because of the wholesale destruction of the land itself.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Frome Valley Voice Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

Frome Valley Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

A member of the

Some of the land at Perrinpit Farm which would be covered with panels.

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May, 2021

3

n NEWS "In terms of birds the area is very rich, and the larks will certainly lose most of their nesting sites if the plans go ahead. I am truly devastated.”

More than 20 people have commented so far on the South Gloucestershire Council's website.

Some have raised concerns over the impact on wildlife and biodiversity, concerns over nesting birds and the effect of glare on horses.

Others have called the panels "unsightly" and an unnecessary over-development of the green belt.

However other residents have written in favour of the plans, saying the solar farm would protect the fields from housing development, provide renewable energy to combat climate change and enable the landowner to diversify his farming business.

One resident whose comment was published, Robert Gallacher, said: “I’m proud one of our business owners is looking to the future for renewable energy.

"It's about time – our country and planet is slipping away from

A solar farm in Cambridgeshire similar to the one planned near Frampton Cotterell. Picture courtesy of BayWa r.e. us; this is one small step towards saving our community and planet.”

Some residents have raised concerns that the consultation process was not wide enough, with the council only sharing information on social media and websites, posting four notices and writing to 150 near neighbours.

BayWa r.e. says it started

consulting last November 2020, speaking to ward councillors, and sent 189 letters to ‘near neighbours’ and gave online presentations to Winterbourne and Frampton Cotterell parish councils, which raised no objections.

The company said it had "tried to reach out to all stakeholders and neighbours" and had been unable to go "door

knocking" due to the pandemic.

People have until May 7 to comment on the plans, which can be seen on the planning section of the council website by searching for application P21/01624/F. The project website can be found on the baywa-re.co.uk website, at bit.ly/2R0W2LU.

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May, 2021

n NEWS

Woman charged over grave attack POLICE have arrested and charged a woman over vandal damage to the grave of a Winterbourne Down man.

White paint was poured over Liam Scarman's headstone at Westerleigh Crematorium and a note with a mocking message was left in November last year.

Liam, who was 22 when he died three years ago, went to Winterbourne Academy, and had worked for insurance firm LV at Aztec West.

The Voice reported Liam's Liam Scarman with his mum, Sue parents' appeal for anyone with Witt information about the damage to come forward.

In April police revealed that a woman had been arrested in connection with the incident.

Simona Julius, aged 25, of St George in Bristol, appeared before Bristol Magistrates on April 17 charged with criminal damage, two counts of malicious communications and one of harassment.

She was granted conditional bail until her next court appearance, which is due to take place on May 12.

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Councillors may quit over end of virtual meetings A NUMBER of councillors are considering resigning if online meetings come to an end this month.

Council meetings have been held remotely since emergency legislation was introduced last year to enable the business of local government to continue safely during the coronavirus pandemic.

But physical council meetings are due to resume on May 7, after the Government said it would not extend the law.

Local government lawyers were awaiting a High Court decision on whether remote meetings can continue as the Voice went to press.

Local Government Minister Luke Hall, who is the MP for Thornbury & Yate, said the "significant progress of the vaccination programme" and a lack of time in Parliament meant the law would not be extended.

Councillors accused the Government of double standards, as MPs have extended their own right to debate from home until June 21.

Liberal Democrat Frampton Cotterell ward councillor Tristan Clark said a number of clinically-vulnerable parish councillors in his ward were “thinking of resigning”.

He told a district council meeting they were “worried” they would not participate in meetings as fully as previously, and would therefore not do as good a job.

He told South Gloucestershire Council’s scrutiny commission on April 7: “Even though the vaccination programme is proceeding, members that are in the clinically more vulnerable groups still don’t feel comfortable attending meetings.

“And those members are thinking of resigning because they’re very passionate about their communities, and they just don’t feel able to attend meetings in a socially distanced manner and participate in the full manner they expect."

He said members who didn't resign but didn't feel safe would find themselves losing their position by law after six months without attending a meeting.

Liberal Democrat councillor for Yate Central, Ruth Davis, who is also vice-chair of the council said the end of virtual meetings would also hinder public participation in local democracy.

Conservative council leader Toby Savage said the council found the Government’s decision “extremely disappointing” and was awaiting a judicial ruling on the matter.

By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service.

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May, 2021

fromevalleyvoice

n NEWS

Eileen Wilkinson has donated 150 sets of bead jewellery for scout Luka Newton to sell to raise funds for a replacement HQ

Eileen's jewellery will help scouts build HQ A PENSIONER who made hundreds of bead necklaces and bracelets during lockdown is helping a scout group achieve its dream of building a new HQ. Eileen Wilkinson, has had to spend much of the last year indoors because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 96-year-old Coalpit Heath resident kept herself busy doing activities including painting, colouring by numbers and embroidery.

She then decided to try making jewellery, and husband Frank, 94, bought some beads for her online.

Eileen made so many jewellery sets that she gave them away to friends, and the family used them in party bags to give to her elderly neighbours for Christmas. But with 200 sets remaining, her daughterin-law Kathryn Wilkinson put an appeal on social media to see if anyone could sell the jewellery to raise funds for charity.

Danielle Newton, the assistant group scout leader and beaver leader for the 1st Frampton Cotterell Scouts, got in touch on behalf of her son Luka, 13, who is helping to raise money to pay for a new HQ for the beavers, cubs, scouts and explorers.

The current building near Ram Hill, known as Mafeking, is used by all the young people who come under Cotswold Edge District Scouts, as their HQ and campsite.

A planning application has been made to demolish it and build a new wooden structure, but the fundraising is still £9,000 short of its £108,000 target.

Luka has spent his lockdown making scout woggles, key rings, lanyards and dog collars out of paracord rope, and suggested Eileen’s jewellery would sell well alongside his collection.

He plans to sell them on a stall at a future village event, but if covid restrictions make that impossible, he will sell them on eBay, with the profits going to the appeal.

Eileen was happy to give him 150 sets of her jewellery.

Kathryn said: “Eileen’s really excited, she feels really good about it.”

Danielle said: “I thought it was a lovely way for Eileen to have occupied herself in lockdown and then to have been willing to help the youngsters with their project.”

“I can see the value of keeping herself busy. Luka did the same with his paracord, and he could very easily have just been on his computer, but he was doing something and thinking ahead for the longer term.”

Any other charities who would like some of Eileen’s handmade jewellery to sell for fundraising can get in touch by email via contact@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

5

ADVERTISING FEATURE

New survey shows Conservative Metro Mayor least well known in UK Research by ‘Centre for Cities’ shows the Conservative Metro Mayor of the West of England has failed to make an impact during his four years in office. Just 7% of people in the West of England could name the Metro Mayor unprompted, the lowest score nationwide. This contrasts with six in ten people in Manchester and London who had their Metro Mayor’s name on the tip of their tongue.

“A great answer on ‘Pointless’ but no good for the West of England” Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris, who grew up in South Gloucestershire, said: “The invisible Tory Metro Mayor has let opportunities slip through his fingers. It’s time for new leadership.” The West of England Initiative representing local businesses has also called for a higher profile Metro Mayor.

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6

n NEWS SCHOOLS have started the process of assessing A-level and GCSE students.

In the absence of the traditional national exams, teachers are being asked to award grades this year for A Levels, AS Levels, GCSE’s and some vocational qualifications.

Assessments started after the return from the Easter break, with many pupils sitting papers under exam conditions in the classroom.

Schools' policies and samples of work from pupils will then be compared, in an attempt to ensure candidates at different schools have been treated fairly.

The system has been sett up after the government announced in January that exams could not go ahead due to the disruption to education caused by COVID-19 restrictions.

Teachers at Winterbourne Academy will be using coursework, classwork, practice papers and assessments to inform their decisions.

May, 2021

Assessments replace exams as GCSEs and A-levels begin The Olympus Trust, which oversees the school, says it will ensure the process is fair and follows the guidance provided by exam boards. All teacherassessed grades will be reviewed by the school's leadership team, assisted by the trust.

Olympus Academy Trust executive head teacher Gary Lobbett and director of post-16 Tom Hill wrote a joint letter to parents which said: “Please be reassured that the grades students receive this summer will look exactly the same as in previous years.

"They will have equal status with universities, colleges and employers to help students as

they progress in their education or towards future aims.”

At Chipping Sodbury School pupils are sitting assessments, which will be used alongside a wide variety of pieces of work to show progress during courses.

The school has recently joined the Athelstan Trust, which will provide support with GCSE quality assurance, while for A-levels this will take place jointly with other schools in the Cotswold Edge 6th Form.

Similar plans have been made at Yate Academy.

Head teacher Isabel Ambrose said: “A wide range of evidence will be collated over the next half-term, which will include

internal assessments and student classwork.

"In addition, we will be using student work produced in response to assessment materials provided by our awarding organisation(s), including groups of questions, past papers or similar materials such as shadow or sample papers.”

Results days will be August 10 for A and AS Levels and August 12 for GCSEs. Pupils can appeal grades, although exam boards have said they will only consider appeals where the evidence "cannot reasonably support" the grade that was given.

Full impact of schools cyber attack revealed A CYBER attack on 24 South Gloucestershire schools knocked out servers and left teachers locked out of vital equipment and files on more than 1,000 computers.

The full extent of the “disruptive and distressing” ransomware attack on seven Castle School Education Trust (CSET) schools, and 17 local authority primary schools which used the trust's IT systems, was revealed at a session of the council's cabinet.

Schools in the Frome Valley area which were affected by the “highly sophisticated” attack on March 16, reported in last month's

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Voice, included Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary, Hambrook Primary and St Michael’s C of E Primary in Winterbourne.

The cabinet meeting on April 12 was told that more than 1,000 devices needed to have their systems rebuilt, and many teachers started the new term on April 19 without access to laptops, whiteboards, printers and photocopiers.

Ransomware is malicious software which encrypts a computer system’s files and blocks people from accessing data, holding it 'hostage' until a ransom is paid.

A council spokesperson said no ransom had been paid and "no personal data has

£

been impacted" by the attack.

The council says 16 servers had been rebuilt, back office systems were in place and services were being restored, giving every school “core functionality and access to management information”.

The spokesperson said the worst impact was on teachers who kept resources in files on their computers, as web or cloud-based data was unaffected.

Cllr Alison Evans (Lab, Woodstock), who is a parent, teacher and school governor, said "years" or work had been lost.

By Adam Postans and Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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May, 2021

7

n NEWS

Willow tunnel completes Frampton Cotterell playground CHILDREN got hands-on to help finish a new play area in Frampton Cotterell.

Families took part in a day workshop during the Easter holidays to help install a living willow tunnel at Beesmoor Road Playing Fields.

The willow tunnel was a popular suggestion during consultations over the design of the new playground in 2015, led by the contractor Touchwood.

Grant funding for the tunnel was awarded last year, but the installation could not happen at that point due to lockdown and, as willow can only be planted at certain times of the year, organisers had to wait until the spring.

Kate Colechin, one of the volunteer trustees looking after the field, said: “Following the brief for natural, timber equipment, Touchwood incorporated a wooden tunnel underneath one of the slides and also the willow tunnel into the design.

"Following the success of the community workshop to create the den frame in 2019, we wanted the community to be involved again in creating another aspect of the play area.”

The tunnel was constructed using a frame of hazel and then weaving the willow around the frame. The willow tunnel is the final part

Children helped build the willow tunnel during the school holidays. of the redevelopment that aims to provide a space for children to play creatively and meet with friends.

Kate said: “The new play area has been a popular destination over the last 12 months and after 6 years since the project started, it's great that it's been a focal point for friends and families to meet during a particularly challenging 12 months.”

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8

May, 2021

n LOCAL ELECTIONS

Your candidates for Metro Mayor: mini manifestos VOTERS in the Frome Valley area will help choose the next West of England Mayor on May 6.

The boss of the West of England Combined Authority, or WECA, is in charge of coordinating the region’s transport, housing jobs and skills policy, securing government funding and overseeing the spending of more than £1.1 billion over the next 30 years.

Current Metro Mayor Tim Bowles, a Conservative, is standing down from the

position, which he has held since 2017.

Four candidates are vying to replace him, and voters are given a first and second choice on the ballot. If no-one receives more than half of the votes when the votes are first counted, the two candidates with the fewest votes are knocked out. Any second choice votes from their ballot papers are added to the remaining candidates' total to find a winner.

Voting cards have been sent out and polls open from 7am until 10pm. People who have

to create 23,000 new jobs. I want to rejuvenate our high streets, double investment in affordable homes, improve public transport, tackle Local. the climate emergency and make Experienced. the West of England the bee capital Active. Dan’s of the UK. been an NSPCCAs an active and visible Metro trained child Mayor, I will lead our recovery, protection bringing people together to ensure officer, a local our area is on the map: nationally MP, Environment Minister and run his and internationally. own businesses.

The pandemic has shown what really matters so let’s keep looking I’ll be a jobs first Metro Mayor out for each other and value what’s and get people back to work truly important.

WB Genericmy AW.qxp_Layout 23/09/2020 21:57 Page 2 launching Green Recovery 1Plan

Dan Norris, Labour

to self-isolate can apply for an emergency proxy vote via the council's website, southglos. gov.uk.

The Voice has asked each candidate in the election to send us a 100-word manifesto explaining their priorities, plus a short biography to tell readers more about themselves.

They are printed here in alphabetical order, as they will appear on ballot papers.

Jerome Thomas, Green

I’ve lived locally with my family for many years, run a successful UK business and I’m a hardworking city councillor.

We need to rapidly move to a low carbon economy, while making sure workers don’t lose out. We need clean energy, affordable

green transport, a thriving agricultural sector to supply local food, better support for people who need care and their carers, and more power to communities to take action in the ways they know will work.

I’ve identified £1bn of existing regional funds for local investment in green jobs and growth industries, including support for small businesses. I’ll subsidise rural bus routes and lower fares for young people and I’ll give a greater voice to communities in regional decision-making.

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May, 2021

9

n NEWS Samuel Williams, Conservative Samuel is a business founder and charity leader who has worked domestically and internationally to lead social and economic change.

The West of England Mayor is a big job that decides how hundreds of millions of pounds are invested across the region.

This is time to take hold of opportunity and secure our recovery by: Implementing a modern transport system that works – delivering at least six new stations, crucial rail improvements, ‘ondemand’ services, and cycling and walking services; Deliver improved skills training for high value and sustainable jobs of the future; Boosting local enterprise, increasing employment and attracting greater investment; Unblocking the redevelopment logjam and pioneering more

sustainable future communities.

Stephen Williams, Liberal Democrat

Former Bristol West MP and Minister for Communities.

Worked as a business trouble-shooter and is a Bristol University history graduate.

I will be a strong champion for the West of England, using my experience in business, as an MP and government minister to get our voice heard loudly in London, winning new investment and powers.

I will also: Lead a green and socially just economic recovery; Take control of our buses and run them on clean fuel; Build thousands of new homes to suit all budgets, built to the highest green standards; Demand a range of new powers from government, making more big decisions locally.

We can’t afford another inexperienced Conservative mayor.

Put my experience to work for you!

Mayor's image problem WHOEVER becomes the next Metro Mayor following the election will need to ensure people remember who they are.

Independent political think-tank Centre for Cities found that just 7% of people polled in the West of England area, which includes Bristol and B&NES as well as South Gloucestershire, could name retiring mayor Tim Bowles, (pictured right).

In fact, more people (10%) incorrectly thought that Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees was the Metro Mayor than named Mr Bowles as the incumbent.

They were not alone: Prime Minister Boris Johnson, asked on a visit to Gloucestershire last month if he could name the Metro Mayor, was unable to say it was Mr Bowles who held the post.

Mr Bowles, a Winterbourne parish councillor, has been involved in local politics for 20 years. He represented the Winterbourne ward on South Gloucestershire Council for seven years before he was elected to lead WECA. Two thirds of the 275 voters polled by Centre for Cities knew there was a Metro Mayor and more than three quarters wanted to see the mayor given more powers, with the most popular areas being supporting local businesses and providing affordable housing.

More than a third supported the Metro Mayor having a bigger role in providing access to skills and training locally, an area which is one of the current responsibilities of the role.

But when asked their top priorities for the incoming mayor, the top three named by voters were in areas where WECA has no powers: health care (52%), schools (42%) and social care (30%).

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10

May, 2021

n L OCAL ELECTIONS: POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES – MINI MANIFESTOS VOTERS in the Frome Valley area will help choose the next Avon and Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner on May 6.

The PCC is responsible for the effective policing of the region, drawing up a budget – including the annual precept charged to council tax payers – setting priorities for the force, selecting and holding the chief constable to account.

Current commissioner Sue Mountstevens, an independent, is standing down from the position, which she has held since 2012.

The election had been due to take place last year but was delayed because of the lockdown.

It is being contested by four party political candidates and an independent, and voters are able to pick a first and second choice.

As they prepare to face the voters, the Voice has asked each candidate in the election to send us a 100-word manifesto explaining their priorities, plus a short biography.

They are printed here in alphabetical order, as they will appear on ballot papers.

Kerry Barker, Labour As a barrister I dealt with difficult cases of abuse and sexual assaults and know changes have reduced police effectiveness.

The police are meant to prevent crimes and catch criminals.

Across the area the detection rates for crimes which affect ordinary people (burglaries, robberies, thefts, criminal damage and violent and sexual offences) are dreadful.

There has been a massive increase in violent and sexual crime since 2012 when the PCC was first elected.

If elected, I will: • Improve neighbourhood policing with more police officers on the beat in your area; • Stop the closure of police stations; • Reinstate specialist teams of detectives.

• At the heart of those priorities

will be the safety and welfare of all women.

Cleo Lake, Green Cleo is a Bristol city councillor, former Lord Mayor, Avon Fire Authority member and former chair of St Pauls Carnival.

With communities for communities.

Active democracy is important to me. I will ensure a mechanism for communities to feed into the police and crime plan ahead of it being finalised in March 2022.

Community outreach and engagement work would be central to my forward facing transparent approach, which I would prioritise over being sat behind a desk at Portishead HQ, for example.

I would support the Independent Advisory Groups as

another layer of public scrutiny and consensus building. I would also require senior commanders to give a monthly verbal update at public meetings in each local or district authority area.

Heather Shearer, Lib Dem As vice chair of the Police and Crime Panel I scrutinise the PCC’s work and fight for what people want.

Everyone should feel safe. In 201920 1.8m crimes went unsolved nationally.

If you call the police, you want something done. People think there is no point in reporting a crime.

Just 1 in 10 burglaries are solved in our area. Most burglars have done it before and will again.

We have to break that cycle of crime.

Every three days a woman is killed by their partner but only

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fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021 10% of abusers are successfully prosecuted. I want to stop abuse before it gets dangerous, prevent domestic abuse and support all victims of sexual violence, both men and women.

Mark Shelford, Conservative Brought up just outside Bath, spent over 30 years in the Army, Deputy Leader BATHNES, a member of the PCP. Return to Peelian principles of preventing crime.

Reassure residents that the Police are there for them.

This means more visible Policing, includes a plan for women’s safety, making the Community more resilient and resistant to crime.

Revitalising Neighbourhoods with Specials who live and work in their community.

Refocus the Police on fighting the crimes that the residents are

most concerned with: County Lines, associated violence and burglaries, dangerous driving, ASB and the silent crimes of cyber fraud and domestic abuse.

Rebuild the Force by making them more effective and efficient, reducing their admin, allowing them to be more proactive.

John Smith, Independent Deputy PCC and ran the PCC’s office for 8 years. His independence makes him the best choice for local residents.

John Smith, former Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, is standing as an independent candidate.

If elected, he’ll keep the party politics out of policing, answering only to residents, not party bosses in Westminster.

John’s priorities: supporting the police to enforce COVID-19

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Andy Marsh, pictured, has confirmed he will not be seeking to extend his contract when it expires at the start of July.

Mr Marsh has been Avon and Somerset Constabulary's chief constable since 2016, taking over after a turbulent few years following the election of Sue Mountstevens as the first PCC in 2012.

Within a week of her election she announced she would invite applications for the role of chief constable, causing the incumbent, Colin Port, to resign rather than reapply for his job.

Nick Gargan, who was appointed the following year, was suspended after 14 months amid allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards female officers and staff. He resigned in 2015 after being found guilty of eight misconduct charges.

Mr Marsh said it had been the “honour of a lifetime” to lead the force he joined as a new recruit in 1987, but it was "the right time for me to embark on a new challenge".

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fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

n NEWS

Matt's ready to lose his locks MATT Holway has not had a haircut since the first coronavirus lockdown last year.

So when the time came to lose the flowing locks and beard he has been growing ever since he decided to raise money for a good cause at the same time.

Matt, from Frampton Cotterell, will have a grade 1 haircut – leaving it just 1/8 of an inch long and have his beard shaved off next month.

He will be supporting the Kendleshire Kids Foundation, which is based at the Kendleshire Golf Club where his 15-year-old son, Ethan, has played golf since he was five.

Matt said: “Many of the people involved in the Kendleshire Kids Foundation are associated with the golf club, who we know well.

"It’s a unique charity that helps disadvantaged children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences and trauma.”

The charity aims to help with young people’s development through playing golf, building self esteem, encouraging teamwork, and teaching life skills.

Matt believes that golf helped make Ethan the person he is today.

He said: “Golf is a great sport for younger people because it provides the opportunity to instil values that will last a lifetime.

"Helping disadvantaged children through the Kendleshire Kids Foundation will assist in building their resilience and empower their development for the future.”

The big cut will take place on the terrace at the golf club, on a date to be arranged in June, and Matt admits he has had a few second thoughts about losing his long hair.

He said: “I am getting quite attached to it now, I think it will be certainly difficult to let it go.

"I wanted to find a purpose to finally have it cut try and raise some money for charity.

"I am also enquiring to see if I can donate some of the hair to Macmillan Cancer Wigs.”

Matt has set a fundraising target of £1,000. Donations can be made online at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/matt-holway-4.

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fromevalleyvoice

14

May, 2021

n COMMUNITY NEWS WE have been busy down on our site this last month as the next growing season arrives.

New seedlings are going in the ground and we have welcomed many new families to be part of our team.

Excitingly, our poly tunnel is nearly ready to grow in. This will be a wonderful addition to the project, will significantly increase our growing season and also give us somewhere to duck in to when the rain catches us out!

After just a year of ‘rewilding’ a ½ acre section of our site we are starting to see a variety of wild flowers emerge, including some very sweet wild pansies.

Also, thanks to quick work from Winterbourne Environmental Group, we have been able to re-home some cowslips, which were due to be destroyed by a large development. Cowslips are a beautiful wild flower, is sadly declining in the UK. As restrictions have begun to ease we have loved inviting students back to access the site.

Students come to learn about how

No digging for Frome Valley Growing Project we are using the land and also to help us care for the many plants and animals that our site supports.

As well as this, we have started our monthly volunteer sessions.

If you are interested in coming along to these please do join our Facebook group, Frome Valley Growing Project Volunteers, to find out about when our next session is and to register your interest.

We use a ‘no dig’ approach to our growing. To create beds to grow plants in we simply lay large sheets of cardboard down directly on to grass (removing plastic, tape or staples first), give the cardboard a good water and top it with 4 to 5 inches of compost.

The compost we use comes from Yate, made from local green bin waste, which we mix with horse manure.

We disturb the soil less by not digging, reducing the amount of weeds, which appear as a result of the disruption.

By adding compost and manure to the soil we add to the microbiome, increasing beneficial organisms and general health of the soil. As the compost we add is loose and woody, it improves drainage.

For more information on ‘no dig’ and to find out how this wonderful growing method could work for you, you can check out Charles Dowding on YouTube.

We are looking for donations of wheelbarrows and netting for the project – and have a variety of plants available to give away.

You can find us on Facebook or via email at thegrowingproject123@ gmail.com.

Kate Macdonald

The Frome Valley Growing Projec's growing beds

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Promoted by Max Hopfl on behalf of Samuel Williams and Mark Shelford, all at West of England Conservatives, 5 Westfield Park, Bristol, BS6 6LT.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

15

n NEWS

A very different May Day this year ONE of the busiest weekends for community events was set to be quiet this year, as restrictions force event organisers to change or cancel plans.

The May Day bank holiday weekend usually sees the streets of Winterbourne Down packed for the annual carnival.

The traditional parade cannot be held for the second year running because of social distancing rules, and there is no May Queen – but organisers have come up with creative ways to keep people involved.

A history trail, aiming to give participants a sense of what village life used to be like, has been set up on the carnival website, winterbournedowncarnival. co.uk.

People were being encouraged to take part in the self-guided walk from All Saints Church to Bethesda Methodist Church, downloading

a map and instructions on their phone. During the bank holiday weekend of May 1 to 3, volunteers were set to be on hand at All Saints between 10am and 2pm to help to get walkers started.

QR codes were being mounted at points of historical interest for people to scan with smartphones to find out more information.

A virtual shopping fair has also been organised to support local and independent businesses who would normally be open for the carnival. It runs until June 30 and can be found on Facebook by searching for Winterbourne Down Carnival Virtual Fair.

Every year the carnival raises funds for charities, and this year people going on the history trail walk were being asked to donate to charities Brace, Mind, SSAFA and the Trussell Trust.

The carnival committee is

planning to install a ‘chatty bench’ somewhere in the village, to enable people to meet for a sociallydistanced chat.

Carnival chairman John Turner said: “This is particularly beneficial to those who may be struggling with the isolation that these strange times have forced upon us.”

In Iron Acton, the This year will be the second in a row traditional English May without a Winterbourne Down carnival Day celebrations on the parade – but organisers have created village green have been cancelled for a second year other events to bring people together running.

Organisers promise they and asked any new artists who will be back in 2022. wanted to take part to email Another event which has been cagreener2002@yahoo.co.uk or postponed until next year is the call 07979 246091.

St Peter's Church art exhibition One event which has jut in Frampton Cotterell. confirmed it is going ahead hit Organiser Carolie Green autumn is the Watermore 10k, said the event had now been on September 26. Entry details booked for the August bank will be published in May online holiday Weekend next year, at watermore10k.co.uk.

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Chair’s report The Parish Council has been busy adapting during lockdown by holding public meetings via Zoom (something everyone is now using!), making sure the buildings, play areas and sports facilities were safe for public use. Staff have been working from home, again something that many are now well used to doing. Greater use was made of our outdoor spaces and there was additional pressure to keep them fit for purpose whilst complying with COVID-19 guidelines, this was provided throughout the pandemic as was grass cutting, and buildings management. We were very aware of the effect upon our young people and continued to offer mobile help and support to those that wanted or needed it.

In addition to continuing to provide our usual services, we have been able to complete the first part of the Drainage project at the Park during the pandemic and we are hoping to reopen the field for use by all very shortly. The tribute to Dick King-Smith, a beautifully carved wooden bench was unveiled in St Saviour’s Rise.

Our plans to improve biodiversity at the Centenary field are continuing as are looking at ways to improve services by updating our buildings, particularly the Pavilion, replacing litter bins, increasing the facilities offered to young people, and finishing the drainage project at the Park.

NEWS FROM

Welcome to Matt Hemmings We are very pleased to announce that Matt has joined us as a Councillor.

Occupation: General Manager – Engineering Status: Happily married with two amazing children Interests: Many types of exercise, family time, fishing, socialising, holidays!

Dick King-Smith Bench, St Saviour’s Rise

Welcome to Stephen Drew We are very pleased to announce that Stephen has joined us as Estates & Amenities Officer. Stephen has extensive experience in horticulture, maintenance, pitch improvement projects, and groundsman roles. You will see Stephen out and about carrying out maintenance so please do say hi. We will be purchasing a 100% electric van for Stephen to use.

Local Plan

South Gloucestershire Council Local Plan 2020 will include a new strategy and policies to guide and manage growth and change in our area over the next 15 years.

This is an important opportunity to: • shape the places we live, work and socialise in • have a direct impact on quality of life, the natural and built environment • have positive impacts on climate change, inequalities and encourage a green economy • discuss choices and make decisions about where significate levels of growth for new homes and jobs might be located, and which areas should be protected Please be assured we will continue to respond to consultations and keep all residents informed. We want to reassure residents that nothing is set in stone. Further information can be found at https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/new-local-plan/.

We welcome comments from everyone.

Having lived in the village for 34 years, I think it is safe to say it now feels like home!

I attended local schools, both junior and senior, followed by a career within the locally loved aerospace sector. Currently, I’m still involved within the engineering sector, running a small business within the Bristol area – a city I very much LOVE! I feel privileged to of had the chance to grow up in and around Coalpit Heath, Frampton Cotterell & Winterbourne. Such a beautiful, friendly, and most importantly, safe place to live and raise families and this is how I want to keep it. I feel lucky to be living in this location and being able to raise my two boys within a friendly, sociable village environment.

My objectives: Like any village, change via development and improvement is needed and inevitable and should be managed and supported or rejected accordingly.

The voice of our many villagers is of the utmost importance to me, and I look forward in being able to bring thoughts and feelings of others to meetings supporting decisions and change.

Hopefully, I can support the Council as it evolves into a futureproof, modern, AND dynamic Council that can carry local constituent’s views, needs, and most importantly VOICES well into the future.

We are still looking for further Councillors so if you are interested please do let us know.

Annual Parish Meeting – 20th May, 7pm All village organisations are invited to the meeting to give an update on what they have been working on, and what they have planned. Please do email the Clerk a copy of your report and accounts before the meeting and confirm your attendance.

At the time of writing, the government has announced that Parish Council meetings have to be face-to-face from 7th May, however, there is a legal challenge which we will not know the outcome of until the end of April.

Annual Meeting – 6th May, 7pm. Virtual The Annual Meeting of the Parish Council has been scheduled for 6th May. This meeting will have motions to elect Members for the coming year and review policies and procedures. An agenda and link to the virtual meeting will be available on the website by 30th April. Everyone is very welcome to attend.

Volunteers We would like to give a huge thank you to everyone who volunteers in order to make Frampton Cotterell a better place to live. There are so many people to thank. We are sure you will all agree that Frampton Floral Friends ensure the flower displays look amazing. Thank you to Plastic Free Frampton Cotterell for raising awareness about plastic pollution and continuing to work towards making Frampton Cotterell a plastic free community. Volunteers have started work on improving the tennis courts with a clean-up and new nets. Village Action ran litter picking days and an art trail, just two of their many activities. Frampton Cotterell & Coalpit Heath Covid Response Group who co-ordinated shopping for the elderly, breakfast hampers and lots more. The volunteer who ran the Scarecrow Trail and Christmas light/decorate your house trail. Poverty Action Group who provided financial support for families delivered through primary schools, financial support for referrals from Bromford Housing Neighbourhood Coaches through a Food & Fuel Fund to bridge the gap in receiving help from the Food Bank and also to give emergency help with utility bills debt/money management support and advice for households impacted by Covid-19 through delivering the training and support services offered by Christians Against Poverty. We are extremely lucky to live in such a beautiful village with people who are always willing to help. We really appreciate everyone’s help and support. Apologies to anyone not listed here – there are so many to name!

Pitch Improvements at The Park With Section 106 funding awarded via South Gloucestershire Council, the Parish Council have now completed the main pitch improvements at The Park and the grass is growing nicely. Part of the fencing will come down later in the Spring to allow cricket to play but fencing around the Rugby pitch will Frampton Cotterell remain until Autumn 2021. Thank Cricket Pitch you to all users of The Park for your patience as we complete this much needed project. Whether you are a sports lover, dog walker or rambler, we are certain you will benefit from the completed project.

Centenary Field / Nature The Centenary Field is loved by both people and wildlife, and the Parish Council are looking to improve its habitats even further.

A new woodland and grassland management plan is about to begin.

This was developed with the help of ecologists to make the area even better for wildlife. If you spot any wild plants or animals, we would love to hear all about it! You can also get involved with our new Climate & Nature group – contact us for details. Primroses at the Centenary Fields

BBQs / Litter With the relaxing of lockdown and the better weather it is great to see so many residents benefiting from the open spaces.

Council have provided a large picnic bench with metal plates fitted for disposable bbqs at the Centenary Field which anyone is welcome to use. Litter has increased, particularly at the park so can we please ask that everyone takes their litter home or places it in the bins provided and use bbqs responsibly so as not to cause damage and ensuring the opens spaces remain beautiful for everyone to use at all times.

Picnic bench with bbq plates at the Centenary Field

Volunteers Needed We are currently working on many improvements and projects.

If you have an interest in any area(s) please do let us know as we would love more input from residents and invite you to join working groups. Some of the topics being discussed: • Play areas / Sports facilities / Pavilion / Park / Centenary Field • Open spaces • Climate & Nature • Events

Want to be kept up-to-date?

Would you like to be kept up-to-date with news of what the Council are working on and planned events? If so, please email us asking to be added to our enews mailing list.

www.framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk | email office@framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

20

May, 2021

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

It is time to press the reset button

I

N November 1987 I took a group of young people from Newcastle on a pilgrimage to Corrymeela, Ballycastle, in Northern Ireland.

The community there have been over the years, and still remain, a symbol of reconciliation, unity and peace.

When I went there it was at the height of what became known as the Troubles. Corrymeela was a symbol of hope and prayer for a better future for the people of Ireland, and the work that they undertook in bringing people together from across the sectarian divide was both significant and critical in helping divergent communities to come to a point of understanding and acceptance, which would eventually lead to peace.

How they must have wept at the sight of young people rioting in Belfast recently. Images of the destructive impact the divisions in the province had on the lives of us all in the 70’s and 80’s; something

I am sure we all felt we had left behind us with the Good Friday Agreement.

Unity and understanding are hard won: they have to be worked at and underpinned by empathy and true love of neighbour, what you might call core ‘Christian values’.

They can also so easily be undermined and left in tatters if people turn to selfish desire, and seek to isolate themselves from being in meaningful relationship and partnership with each other.

Whilst I am sure it was not intended, the outcome of the imposition of Brexit by the English majority on other parts of the UK which did not seek it will, I fear, lead to the breakup of both the United Kingdom and the real danger of a return to the Troubles for the people of the island of Ireland.

As an Englishman who thrives on being in relationship with others, working in partnership for the common good, striving to

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

understand the culture and faith of all members of the human family, joyfully celebrating diversity and being enriched by it, the potential turn of events which has been unleashed saddens me greatly.

It is true to say that once the genie is let out of the bottle it is very hard to put it back.

Corrymeela has always been a place bringing people together from different backgrounds, political and religious beliefs, from different identities, enabling them to reach a point of understanding and common humanity, that "no difference is great enough to break our partnership and relationship as human family”.

I believe we have so much we can learn from Corrymeela’s reconciling vision and it is now time for us to press the reset button.

Our focus in these coming months and years must be to re-establish our relationships with each other in a spirit of acceptance and understanding. As Christians,

Rev Malcolm Strange Fromeside Benefice

as people of ‘All Faith’, as a United Kingdom, within a European Family, let us all shine as a beacon of hope, peace, reconciliation and love of neighbour; providing a lasting harmony between each other and all members of our world community.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

21

n COMMUNITY NEWS

From bags of litter to rivers and flowers - environmental group is keeping busy THERE has been so much going on in the last few months for Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group!

We have been working with Bristol and Avon Rivers Trust and have a nominated member working as a 'beacon' for the stretch of the Frome within Winterbourne and Winterbourne Down. This means we work to check on the river regularly and report back any issues with pollution, blockages or unauthorised waste disposal.

People can report anything they spot back to us by email at wegbartbeacon@gmail.com.

Our area has such a lovely stretch of river, with a huge variety of wonderful wildlife, and the more we can do to keep the river clear, the more we hope we will be able to enjoy it.

We have already reported a number of issues, and some of them have been swiftly sorted out, so this system seems to be working well.

Back in March we co-ordinated a community litter pick, collecting bag upon bag of litter between a large group of volunteers. This was then sorted into various types of litter, so we

Bags of rubbish collected by volunteers in the environmental group's community litter pick. could get an idea of what we were dealing with. A separate pile was made of some of the stranger items, including a frying pan and a baby bottle warmer!

The pick had such positive feedback that we have organised another one for late spring, on May 15. If you are interested in taking part, please email winterbourneenvironmental@gmail.

com.

We have also been looking into improving road safety in the area. It would be amazing if all school-aged children could feel safe to walk or cycle to school but at the moment, this is far from true. Safe walking routes and cycling routes are a priority for us and for the local community, so people can feel that using the car doesn’t have to be the only option.

This year we are planning to have some wildflowers in selected places around the area.

So far we are continuing with the same areas we supported last year, which are Whiteshill Common and Winterbourne Library. We are also looking to expand these to some other sites where we are hoping to also be able to do some tree planting – so please look out for wildflowers and our blue heart signs, to show where we are supporting bees and butterflies and bugs.

If you would like to get involved in any of these activities please contact us on Facebook @ WinterbourneEnvironmentalGroup or on Twitter at @weg_uk.

Sharon Hancock

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22

May, 2021

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second-hand Style Save the planet - buy a V8 LAST month you may have noticed that this column was conspicuous by its absence.

For the first time since the start of the pandemic, I found myself without a car to review.

To that end, if you own something that people would be interested to read about (and are happy for me to drive it round the block), do please get in touch with my editor. His number is at the bottom of this page, and I promise to be polite about your pride and joy. Or at least not rude.

In the meantime, I have a used vehicle purchase recommendation for you. Later this year, Bristol will introduce a Clean Air Zone, charging certain vehicles £9 a day to enter the central area.

London already has a CAZ in place. These are mainly aimed at reducing the number of diesel vehicles travelling around the city, but petrol cars older than 2006 will also be charged.

Electric vehicles will, of course, be exempt. But electric vehicles are arguably as bad - or worse - for the planet than a dirty second-hand diesel.

I’m serious. All new cars require steel, which is produced in the main by burning fossil fuels, often coal, and sometimes in places a long way away from the car factory. That steel therefore needs

shipping, on massive vessels that burn heavy fuel oil, which is worse than diesel for emissions.

A used car has already gone through this grubby production cycle.

Diesel exhaust emissions are filthy, though, and I don’t advocate them. Bristol is right to try and get rid, ASAP. And it is true that electric cars produce zero emissions, which is lovely for your lungs. But their batteries contain cobalt, and cobalt is really problematic.

It is produced by smelting iron, and is a key component in all lithium-ion batteries. Some 70% of the world’s cobalt is mined in the Congo, 30% of which is dug up by ‘informal’ workers.

Informal is the term used by the mine owners to disguise the fact that they employ local children.

These children, as young as 12, are ‘paid’ with food and lodging, and mine with their bare hands.

Informal miners work in a totally unregulated industry.

Congo has updated Conrad’s Heart of Darkness for the 21st century. Kurtz has swapped his ivory for cobalt, and his malign influence lives on in the batteries of vehicles sold to assuage Western guilt and show off the owner’s eco credentials. The horror, the horror.

My solution is simple and full of

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

joy: A Mercedes 450 SLC. Now classified as a historic vehicle (i.e. at least 40 years old), the big SLC is exempt from the Bristol and London CAZ. The lazy, low compression 4.5 litre V8 will run forever with the right care and attention, meaning you won’t ever need to buy another car. This is recycling in the best possible sense of the word. The cherry on the cake is that it is affordable to buy and maintain, coming in far cheaper than its more popular SL cousin.

Mercedes built the SLC alongside the convertible SL between 1971 and 1981, and offered a straight six (weedy, avoid) and three V8s.

The pick was always the 4.5, as the other two (a 3.5 and a 3.8) used just as much fuel and gave out less power. On the used market there is little price difference between them.

So what do you get? The engine produces about 220hp, runs out of puff at 5k rpm but will keep up with modern traffic. 0-60 is about 9 seconds, hampered by an oldfashioned automatic gearbox.

The long bonnet rises majestically as you accelerate.

Torque is prodigious. Top speed, broadly irrelevant, is maybe 120mph.

You can really hustle an

SLC, despite the slightly soft suspension, and the addition of a solid roof helps with rigidity compared to the SL. Back in the 70s, Mercedes took them rallying across Africa, and it won the London to Sydney race, so these are tough cars - unless you expose them to moisture, of course, in which case they rust like it’s going out of fashion. Store this car in a garage.

Inside, the padded steering wheel is huge, as are the lovely clear period dials. Front seats are wide but not very supportive, so maybe better to corner with grace rather than pace.

The SLC is longer than the SL by a few inches, meaning space in the back for two is fine.

The boot is adequate, fuel economy is not: 15mpg, maybe 20mpg on the motorway.

Better to think instead of all the murderous cobalt mines you won’t be supporting each time you fill the 20 gallon (90 litre) fuel tank.

What to pay: 1978 Mercedes SLC 450, £15k

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

23

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Ann Murray founded the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury. She’s teamed up with Frome Valley Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen.

Getting back together: veggie burgers AT last! We can now meet up outside with more people and enjoy a picnic or a BBQ. After all these months of confinement, that feels pretty good. So, my recipe this month is super tasty and a good way of getting your kids to eat more veg.

When I did a class for 10 year olds a few years ago, I offered them these burgers and traditional ones too. I didn’t tell them what was in the veggie burgers and simply asked them which they preferred. The veggie burgers were a unanimous winner. How cool is that?

Let’s hope that there is a gradual lessening of restrictions, so that we will be able to socialise more freely with friends and family. Fingers crossed that we have a good summer to enjoy, too.

Red onion - ½ chopped finely Garlic clove, grated – 1 Celery stick, finely chopped- 1 Carrot, grated - 1 Pepper, green or red, finely chopped – 1 Dried basil, marjoram, oregano – ½ tsp each Tomato puree mixed with 1 tablespoon of hot water – 1 tablespoon Egg – ½ (about 30mls) Homemade breadcrumbs – 30g(2oz) Cheese, either Edam or Cheddar if you prefer a stronger taste, grated – 60g (2oz) Salt and pepper – a little to your taste Paprika or cayenne pepper – one pinch

Rainbow Bean Burgers

Pre-heat the oven to gas 6, 200 C or 180C fan ovens

Makes 10 mini burgers or 4 large burgers Ingredients: Tin of cannellini beans – 1 x 200g (7oz) tin

Here’s what you do:

Drain and rinse the beans.

Mash the beans in a medium bowl with a potato masher or fork.

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well using your hands. (Make sure you have just washed them!)

Shape into a long sausage shape and cut into 10 pieces for mini-

burgers, 4 for large.

Place a piece of non-stick paper on a baking tray to stop the burgers from sticking as they cook.

Put the burgers on the lined baking sheet and flatten slightly with your hand.

Bake in the oven for about 20-25 mins until golden and crisp.

Serve with a salad made of apple, finely chopped celery and

tomatoes, cucumber and red peppers. Pour over a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.

Cook’s Tip: If you have a food processor you can put all the ingredients in there and process until combined. Don’t overdo it, as we still want the veg to be a bit chunky.

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fromevalleyvoice

24

May, 2021

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Floral friends of Frampton Winterbourne Medieval Barn DURING early spring, members of Floral Friends have been busy sowing seeds in the Beesmoor bed – hopefully they will be flowering in the summer and giving pleasure to all who pass by.

We were also delighted to contribute to Zion United Church’s Easter Garden, and hope everybody enjoyed the displays.

Bulbs have popped up all around the village, thanks to the many Sowing seeds at Beesmoor donations we have received in the past, including these tulips from B&Q. They have found a good home round one of the decorated litter bins in the village.

The cherry tree in the Sensory Garden has joined in the fun, flowering beautifully in the spring sunshine, despite it still being rather chilly.

The wildflower bed at the Glebeland has recently been cut by South Gloucestershire Council, and large logs placed around the edges.

More wildflower seeds will be scattered here and hopefully there will be plenty of wildflowers blooming later in the season to attract a variety of wildlife to the area.

It takes time, effort and funds to maintain the planting around the village benefiting the local community, the environment, and the wildlife.

If you can help in any way, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at floralfriendsofframpton@gmail.com

WINTERBOURNE Medieval Barn Trust has a selection of community activities coming up.

It is hoped that indoor events will be allowed in socially-distanced groups from late May, and that restrictions will lift further in June. But until we get government announcements about this, ticket numbers will be limited to allow for social distancing.

Some events have sold out but many others are available for booking via the Barn website at www.winterbournebarn.org.uk. The website and Facebook page will be updated as the "road map" progresses.

Events coming up include family craft days fun for children under 12, including a Really Wild Day on June 2 and a Myths & Monsters day on June 26. Craft and skills workshops planned include a wooden spooncarving workshop on May 22 and, a month later on June 22, a natural dyes workshop.

This one is for witches and alchemists! For millennia people have used natural resources to produce vibrant and rich colours for dyeing cloth. So, come and experiment with ancient natural processes and historical plantbased dyes to gain an insight into this world of colour, chemistry and cloth, before concocting your own colour potion.

Talks in the barn include The People's Mosquito Project, on June 1, on a scheme to build and fly a de Havilland Mosquito aircraft in the UK for the first time in more than 75 years.

Also in early June, on the 3rd, there will be an evening of amazing jazz/ folk/blues from singer-songwriter Leonie Evans.

Our popular tea and tours will also resume from June 3 onwards, at 2pm on the first Thursday afternoon of each month.

Booking is required for all events.

Louise Harrison

Coalpit Heath WI

gift bags for our WI birthday in October, at Christmas and recently for Easter, which contained a handmade card, an Easter egg, Easter biscuits - handmade by our acting president Carol Shields sunflower seeds and a quiz. Who will manage to grow the tallest sunflower?

Our meeting in September will be a time for us all to all enjoy being together again and then in October it is our birthday party, with wine and cake.

November brings our AGM and then comes December, with an American Supper, wine and entertainment.

We will be very pleased to welcome visitors to all our meetings, which will be held on the second Thursday of every month at 7.30pm at St Michael’s School, Winterbourne.

We have an excellent selection of speakers booked for next year and are planning outings, meals out, walks and other social events COVID-19 permitting, of course!

Come and join us, you can be sure of a very warm welcome.

Margaret Beacham

A LOVELY sunny April day saw the committee out and about around the village delivering goody bags to all members. It was lovely to have a chat and find out how everyone was.

Each committee member had a small group of ladies to deliver to, all of whom were delighted to receive their daffodils, personalised chocolate, mystery seed sachet with information about the 'show the love' campaign and an Easter card.

The chats revealed how much everyone is looking forward to getting together again.

A good selection of food went off to the Food Bank in Yate this month, including several Easter eggs. Our contact for the Food Bank is unfortunately recovering at home from an operation after a fall, so asks people to take their donations directly to 88 Station

Road for the time being. We wish Joan a speedy recovery.

One member has got in early with her completed tea cosy for National Tea Cosy Day on May 23 (see picture). Her design choice is very apt, as you can see her during the day on patrol duty in this uniform. Well done, Nicola.

There is still time to have a go at making one, and for anyone who finds a tea cosy daunting there are many designs available for a simpler mug cosy.

Any updates and further information will be on our Facebook page @WICoalpitHeath.

Caroline Johnston

Winterbourne Evening WI DESPITE the lockdown, which has meant we have not been able to meet in person for such a long time, our members have found many ways to keep in touch by phone, socially distanced doorstep visits and Zoom meetings.

However, we are all eagerly looking forward to meeting again in person, hopefully in September.

Our committee has kept the members informed of WI matters, both locally and nationally, by regular newsletters and also phone calls just for a chat, which has been much appreciated.

All our members received

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Frampton Cotterell WI THE WI committee has been working behind the scenes yet again - this time on a little Easter treat for our members! Over the

Easter weekend, a gift bag was distributed to members’ homes containing an Easter egg, daffodils, Easter card, decoration and message from our president, Rosey Simpkins.

As we’re still unable to meet up inside, our April event was a live cookery demo with a difference, on Zoom with professional chef Ollie Bragg, who specialises in vegetarian cuisine. Ollie was showing us how to create some yummy sweet treats to enjoy over the summer months.

For May we are planning on holding a socially-distanced picnic on the fields by Crossbow House.

We’ve missed our socialising so much that, if all goes to plan, we’ll be able to hold a cheese and wine social indoors for the first time, hopefully in June.

Speakers and events lined up for the months ahead include Emma Britton (ex-BBC Radio Bristol and now a public celebrant), Dogs for Medical Detection, a craft evening and the return of our Christmas Bingo night - we’re keeping everything crossed!

Watch this space and our Facebook page for confirmation of future event dates and more details.

You can also get in touch via our Facebook page if you’re interested in joining us - search for FramptonCottWI to find out more.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

25

n COMMUNITY NEWS BLUEBELLS are visible amongst the trees in the Centenary Field in Frampton Cotterell at the moment.

To see more, you might like to try this beautiful, three-and-a-halfmile rural walk from Coalpit Heath towards Westerleigh.

Signs of our industrial mining heritage can be seen in the disused railway track, which used to serve Frog Lane Colliery.

There is also an optional diversion to visit the site of Ram Hill Colliery, a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Start in Woodside Road, opposite Badminton Arms Pub, BS36 2QJ. A map for this Frog Lane Walk, along with more lovely local walks, is in the village walks section of the Village Action website, www. villageaction.org.uk.

Walk away from main road, through the gated farmyard at the far end of the lane and go straight ahead into a field.

Enter the bluebell wood on the left, follow the path clockwise round the edge of the wood and exit further up the same field, continuing towards a pylon.

Village Action: Bluebell woods walk

Picture: Phil Handy Over a stile ahead, veer right, following beside the railway embankment to the far right corner of the field; over a stile and eventually exit into a lane.

Turn right under the railway bridge, then immediately left over a stile into a field.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Keep to the right edge of the field; go towards the mast and through the gap, across another field to a stile at the top right.

Over this stile, turn right onto the cycle path, straight across at the immediate ‘crossroads’ (path to Coalpit Heath).

Continue on the path, passing on your right a metal fence with a 'keep out' sign, until you reach (on the right) a large metal barrier, with a gap on its left. If you want to visit the Ram Hill Colliery site, continue up lane and take the first right: the colliery is through a gate on the left. Then return to this point after your visit.

Go through the gap beside the metal barrier to follow the former railway line under a bridge.

Continue to the gate across the lane, climb this (or go via field on your right) and turn left to re-trace your steps through gated farmyard to Woodside Road.

Remember to respect others, park responsibly, leave no trace of your visit and follow the Country Code.

Be aware that parts of a walk can change, for example a path moved to one side or a stile replaced by a gate.

Jen Dunford

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

May, 2021

n LOCAL HISTORY FORMER Frampton Cotterell pub the Live and Let Live is facing an uncertain future after being advertised for sale as a "residential development opportunity". As calls are made to protect the 19th century building, Frampton Cotterell & District Local History Society chairman Ian Haddrell looks back at its past.

FRAMPTON Cotterell's Live and Let Live public house, on the corner of Clyde Road and Park Lane, appears to be of early 19th century origin, built originally as one or perhaps two cottages.

The building(s) and adjacent land appear on the 1841 tithe map of Frampton Cotterell, with the house, outbuildings, yards, courts, garden and paddock described in the Tithe Apportionment as being owned by Ann Osborne, and occupied by Henry Kethro, a 25-year-old hatter, and his new bride, Esther Webb. The couple emigrated to the United States in 1848, to farm in Wisconsin.

In the mid-19th century, the area around what is now Clyde Road was known as Goose Green, but there are no references to a pub in the 1851, 1861 or 1871 census returns in that locale.

The earliest reference to the property being used as a licensed premises is an entry in the Kelly’s Directory of 1879, when George Turner is recorded as the licensee.

Turner, who was born in Coalpit Heath, was described as a beer retailer in the 1881 census, living in the property with his wife Ellen and their seven young children.

By 1891, Frank Gilbert Nichols had taken over the pub, the beer being supplied by Daniel Sykes and Co and the annual rateable value at the time being £14.10s.0d.

Nichols was employed as a stationary engine driver at one of the nearby collieries, so no doubt his wife Lilla Ann had the responsibility of running the pub for most of the time.

When Frank and Lilla Nichols moved out in around 1896 it was taken over by Joseph Wiltshire, assisted by his wife Jane, in a short tenure lasting until 1903, when George Beak became landlord.

William Thomas Page and his wife Annie, both from Frampton

27

History of the Live and Let Live

Lilian Eaves, wife of landlord Harry Eaves, under the decorative lamp outside the entrance to the Live and Let Live Cotterell, ran the pub throughout the First World War period, leaving around 1921, when Harry Eaves took over as landlord.

Eaves was by far the longest serving publican of the Live and Let Live, retiring in 1964 after over 40 years as licensee.

Born in 1886 and a baker by trade, Eaves ran the pub with his first wife, Lilian, until her death in 1943. There is a picture of her standing outside the pub in the 1920s with a magnificent light hanging above the entrance, which sadly was removed many years ago. The sign above the door in the picture informed that Harry Eaves was licensed to sell beer, ale and cider.

The 1920s saw many community activities take place in the Live; harvest festival shows, the Homing Society (for pigeons), and a 'smoking concert' to provide a benefit for a local resident who had been ill.

Eaves remarried in 1946 and with his second wife, Olive, continued to run the Live until his retirement in 1964.

From the 1960s until its closure, the pub had a chequered history with numerous landlords. Indeed, the current licensees of The Globe were tenants between 2007 and 2009.

When the adjacent cottage was incorporated into the pub in the 1970s, buttresses were installed to shore up the external walls of the original building.

The pub was acquired by Smiles Bristol Brewery in the late 1990’s and then sold on to Young’s

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Brewery of Wandsworth, London.

In November 2016 Karen Screen took over the ailing pub and brought a temporary resurgence to its fortunes, but she called last orders for the final time in

November 2019.

Since then, the Live and Let Live has stood empty, the building deteriorating rapidly, as the site awaits development.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

28

May, 2021

n SPORT

Winterbourne Cricket Club springs to life WITH the season another month closer, the first warm up games are behind Winterbourne Cricket Club, with the 1st team getting off to a winning start against Downend.

Winterbourne limited Downend to 186/7 from 40 overs. With an outfield fit for a Masters' green and a short boundary, WCC had taken control thanks to a five-wicket haul from Aaron Blake, including a hat-trick – celebrated at a controlled social distance.

An impressive start followed with the bat, as assistant groundsman Ben Slade hit an imposing 43 before falling leg before wicket.

Wickets continued to fall from this point and, without a defined partnership after the openers, the game continued to be in the balance. However, calmness personified, Sam Bracey controlled the chase with a chanceless 67 not out, including four sixes to guide the

Play resumes at Winterbourne Cricket Club club a three-wicket win.

The 2nd team, captained this season by Mike Green, the Bristol & District Wicket Keeper of the Year 2019, travelled to Frocester CC. This was to end in a 33run defeat, despite promising performances from the Winterbourne bowlers to keep Frocester CC 2nds below 200 and talented batting from the young top order of Winterbourne, suggesting the captain can plan for a strong

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season in the B&D. The 4th team welcomed Golden Hill CC 4th to Winterbourne for a 30-over quick-fire afternoon of cricket.

Winterbourne chased down the 177 run target in 20.3 overs, with half centuries from wicket keeper Nick Shine, and captain Mark Frost leading the way with 66.

Early in the day the Winterbourne bowlers had set up the game keeping Golden Hill in check with a great team.

All games took place under

covid, with outdoor seating and tables allowing the bar to offer spectators refreshment.

WCC youths followed the seniors' start to the season, with the U11’s making a winning start to their GYCL campaign overcoming the Zonal Jets by 33 runs. Batting first an excellent opening partnership from Arjun Chib (64) and Kit Maxwell (46) helped us reach 165 from our 30 overs. Tobias Vamplew was then the pick of the bowlers taking 5-12 as the Jets were restricted to 132ao.

From May 1 senior teams were set to start competitive league action.

With social membership only £5 and new players always welcome, Winterbourne Cricket Club is looking forward to a memorable summer, after a challenging winter.

Contact chairman Bob Vickery on 07711 856472 or at vickeryb1@outlook.com for more information.

Nick Crane

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May, 2021

fromevalleyvoice

n SPORT

Frampton Cotterell Cricket Club were back in action ahead of the season.

Back in action PLAYERS were able to use Coalpit Heath Cricket Club’s new nets – with their first session including brief snow and hail showers.

29

New recruits for tennis club WINTERBOURNE Tennis Club signed up several new junior and senior members at a successful open day.

Junior members were delighted with the colourful balloon display that greeted them on their return to the club on April 3, after several months of lock down.

The club's Easter holiday camp was fully booked, thanks to demand and the great weather.

Activities arranged by the coaches and junior helpers encouraged the young players to improve their tennis game, while Winterbourne Tennis Club junior helper enjoying the social Maryam Hamrouni with six-year-old interaction.

Isabelle Gage and Thomas Gage, aged 8.

With warmer weather approaching, we are planning many more exciting activities for all WTC members.

The Avon summer men's, ladies' and mixed doubles leagues, junior league and club tournament will commence in May, and anybody interested in any of the activities or social tennis can email imedhamrouni@msn.com or find out more at www.wtc.org.uk.

Elsa Looij

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

30

May, 2021

n SPORT

Hockey club picks up where it left off

Contact rugby returns

WITH local hockey given the green light to return in April, Bristol & West Hockey Club were able to resume full training sessions and have arranged friendly games against local clubs before the start of a delayed summer league.

With home fixtures being played at the Winterbourne International Academy, the 2021 Summer League is set to commence in mid-May, with both the Men’s 1s & 2s competing in Division 1 for the first time.

On April 17 the club was able to play its first full round of friendlies – the Ladies 1s ‘B&W Jaspers’ beat their opponents 3-1, whilst the six teams from the men’s side of the club matched up against local opposition Westbury.

All six sides bested their rivals in a dominant club display, with the 1s and 2s defeating their counterparts 6-1 and 6-0 respectively.

Interested in getting back to hockey? Whether you've not played in years, just moved to the area or are looking for something new, we've got space for you!

Harry Bryant

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FRAMPTON Cotterell rugby club seniors and colts have returned to training.

The club is operating under the RFU pathway guidelines stage D1.

This involves touch rugby and some contact – but to be honest, the players were happy to be back playing rugby with their mates.

Numbers have been amazing, with 45 seniors and Frampton Cotterell RFC players 20 colts turning out to train. return to training in line with covid The club hopes guidelines guidelines continue to add more playing options during May, with some social rugby and tournaments planned for the summer.

Head coach Nigel Smith is really excited in what will be his first full season since joining club from Newport Dragons, and club captains Mark Smith and Mike Weaver continue to motivate and ensure players return.

The club would also like to give a special mention to Helen Smith, who has coordinated attendance at sessions in line with covid protocol.

Onwards and upwards!

Mike Weaver

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OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

    

RING MALCOLM ON

07958 673 882 FOR A FREE QUOTATION GARDEN SERVICES Good Grounds & Gardens Good Grounds & Gardens Specialists in wildlife Regular one-offgardens garden ponds or & nature maintenance Garden rescue, redesign and planting Specialists in wildlife gardening Orchard restoration wildlife ponds and&tree-pruning Seasonal maintenance Private & commercial work

07923 447362 07923 447362 info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk

www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk

HOUSE CLEARANCE

0117 PLUMBING

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

JJ PLUMBING BOILERS • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS Colin Yeend Property Developments

MOBILE: 07989 072976 TEL: 01454 859474

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS

www.plumber-in-bristol.co.uk

www.colinyeendpropertydevelopments.co.uk

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

PLUMBING Bathroom Refurb Specialists www.pdayplumbingservices.co.uk info@pdayplumbingservices.co.uk

- Friendle - Reliable - Affordable - Est 2008

1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179

ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN - TESTIMONIALS ON REQUEST

07889 601111

PDay Plumbing Services 07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003

New Builds n Extensions n Ground Works n Kitchens / Bathrooms info@colinyeendpropertydevelopments.co.uk

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

On-average Average cheaper than a skip.

On cheaper than aa skip.

OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip

957 5092

Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue

Call Peter

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

RUBBISH CLEARED

07793 746958

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY EST. 1973

BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES For 2021, we have a great new selection of hanging baskets, tubs, pots and novelty baskets to suit everyone

Why not come and pay us a visit at St Aldams?

BEDDING PLANTS £6.00

FUCHSIAS From £2.00

GERANIUMS From £2.00

SURFINIAS £1.50 each

25 PLANTS

BASKET PLANTS

£1.50 EACH

ERIN MULTIPURPOSE COMPOST £6.00 £15 Top Quality

each or 3 for

Look forward to your visit. Come and find us on The Westerleigh Road between Pucklechurch village and the Westerleigh Crematorium

OPEN 7

DAYS

9AM-5 P

M

WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk